Criteria Sheet: Why Does A Group of People Believe in a Conspiracy Theory?
For this assignment, write an essay that explains why a certain group of people are attracted to a specific, recent conspiracy theory. You are offering a theory, with research, about essentially what people gain by believing in a recent conspiracy theory. It’s kind of a speculative cause and effect essay.
Explain what the conspiracy theory is, what its context is, and what you think the causes are for why so many people believe it. Make sure you choose a current actual conspiracy theory. You are not proving or disproving the theory. Start with the premise that the theory is not true (we don’t have to disprove them; those who believe in them need to prove them).
Some examples:
Covid-19 is a hoax.
Dominion Voting machines were hacked by the Venezuelan Government
Jewish space lasers from space caused California wildfires.
The election was stolen, or even a specific state like Georgia was stolen.
Jefferey Epstein’s death.
Governor Cuomo sexual harassment scandal is a frame job.
Donald Trump’s Federal indictments are caused by President Biden going after his likely opponent by weaponizing the Department of Justice.
QAnon, Pizza-gate
George Soros related conspiracies.
The mob that stormed the Capital was really BLM protesters in Maga costumes.
Kate Middleton is dead.
Make sure you treat people you are theorizing about with dignity and respect. Remember that conspiracy theories are very much a part of our culture, and plenty of intelligent, reasonable people believe in them.
Format:
*MLA style
*Five to seven pages
*At least six solid, credible sources
Content: *A clear purpose throughout your essay.
*Clearly presented reasons that support your claim.
*A clear organization (paragraphs unified into topics).
*Evidence of your understanding of key rhetorical devices and fallacies, including circular arguments (for example, faith).
*Consciousness of audience (our academic community).
*An academic approach—Break new ground with your analysis.
*No spelling or grammatical errors.
*A consistent point of view.
*Creativity and insight
